Dubai Unified Licence seeks to streamline business processes

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has announced the launch of the ‘Dubai Unified Licence’ (DUL), a unique commercial identification provided to all businesses in Dubai with the aim of achieving a streamlined approach to various business processes.

Issued to existing and newly established businesses in Dubai, operating with either a mainland or a free zone licence, the DUL initiative introduces a unified digital registry. Launched in collaboration with the Dubai Free Zones Council, the registry consolidates all economic establishments in Dubai and its Free Zones into a single platform for data management, collation and sharing, serving as a reliable single digital information source.

The initiative aims to standardise and streamline Dubai’s business processes in accordance with global best practices, ensuring that the latest company records, including licence details and data, are consistently maintained within the registry.

By simplifying the setup and operational procedures for businesses in Dubai, the ‘Dubai Unified Licence’ enhances efficiency and reduces the time required for companies to establish and manage their operations. This streamlined process contributes to bolstering Dubai’s competitiveness as a business-friendly destination. Such efficiency is also particularly attractive to international investors and entrepreneurs seeking a hassle-free business environment, further solidifying Dubai’s appeal as a preferred global business hub.

Additionally, the unified digital platform ensures greater transparency and ease of access to business-related information, further enhancing Dubai’s appeal as a dynamic and trustworthy investment destination. Consequently, these features collectively strengthen Dubai’s position on the global economic stage, aligning perfectly with its aspiration to be recognised as one of the top three cities worldwide for business and investment.

As part of the initiative, establishments will undergo thorough validation, verification and screening by the appropriate authorities in order to receive their unique digital identity. To date, DET has issued over 50,000 licences, with plans to issue more in the coming period, covering all registered companies in Dubai mainland and in Free Zones.

Helal Saeed Almarri, director-general of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “The ‘Dubai Unified Licence’, a key initiative within the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, exemplifies our dedication to facilitating ease of doing business, promoting transparency, and embracing digital-first practices. Seamlessly integrating with Dubai’s advanced digital technology infrastructure, it harnesses our smart city capabilities to drive business growth and strengthen Dubai’s position among the world’s top three global cities.

DET has collaborated closely with the Dubai Free Zones Council to ensure the seamless implementation of the DUL initiative. This partnership was crucial in integrating the diverse aspects of this initiative, ensuring a comprehensive approach to business facilitation in Dubai.

DET’s Dubai Business Licence Corporation, will oversee the operation, management, development and supervision of the DUL system. Dubai Free Zones Council will coordinate with each free zone to regularly communicate with their respective licence holders to collect updated licence data and contact information.